JAKARTA, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian Deputy Minister of Forestry Sulaiman Umar Sidiq has called on local authorities to enhance climbing infrastructure in Mount Tambora National Park, West Nusa Tenggara province, while continuing efforts to preserve the environment, according to a statement issued on Monday.
The deputy minister made the statement following his recent visit to the national park, which is located in the Mount Tambora area.
His visit came in the wake of tragic incidents in the nearby Mount Rinjani area, also located in the province, which left a Brazilian hiker dead and a Dutch climber injured.
"We must learn and be proactive. We need to ensure that climbing access is safe, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable," Umar said, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation.
He noted that such efforts are essential for improving tourism and delivering tangible benefits to the local community.
Umar stressed the urgency of improving hiking trail facilities, including the installation of safety information boards, guardrails at vulnerable points, and other basic infrastructure.
Regarding human resources, the Ministry of Forestry is advocating training programs for national park officers and local guides. ■